Uruguay defeat: Davies on another level for Canada, Kone makes his case

There weren’t many clear-cut opportunities after Núñez’s goal. There didn’t need to be. Uruguay continually forced turnovers off sloppy Canadian passes or touches thanks to their high press while playing quickly and incisively through Canada’s own pressing.

“The quality stands out,” midfielder Stephen Eustaquio said. “They had a very good free kick, [it’s] 1-0, and then the second ball, the cross of [Luis] Suárez and the finish of Darwin, but we kept at it. We controlled the game, both sides had our chances, but we just didn’t finish them.”

Canada controlled possession and outshot Uruguay by the full-time whistle.

Les Rouges generated a few half-chances. The difference is that a world-class side was more ruthless in front of goal.

“As I said to the players, we’re not going to get a prize for a performance award at the World Cup,” said Herdman. “You have to take your moments and we didn’t tonight and that’s the big learning.”